Dark Chocolate Maple Buttercream Candies

Introduction:

Dark Chocolate Maple Buttercream Candies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the smooth sweetness of maple syrup, all wrapped up in a decadent, buttery center. These candies are the perfect treat for anyone who appreciates the deep flavor of dark chocolate paired with a hint of natural maple goodness. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a holiday treat, or just because, they are sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.

The velvety maple buttercream filling is encased in a rich, dark chocolate shell, creating a delicate balance of flavors and textures that make these candies stand out. Perfectly sweet, perfectly indulgent—these little bites are a luxurious candy that anyone would love to find in their gift basket or candy jar. The history of maple syrup and dark chocolate together goes back centuries, but in this recipe, we’ll bring the traditional flavors of both into a modern twist that will make them irresistible.

Ingredients:

For the Maple Buttercream Filling:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (make sure it’s 100% pure, no artificial flavoring!)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Dark Chocolate Coating:
- 10 ounces dark chocolate (preferably 70% cocoa or higher for a rich flavor)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil) to help thin the chocolate

Instructions:

Making the Maple Buttercream Filling:

Cream the Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy. This may take about 2–3 minutes.
Add Maple Syrup and Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated, and the mixture has become light and creamy.
Chill the Buttercream: Transfer the maple buttercream filling to a small bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the filling and make it easier to work with when forming the candy centers.

Forming the Candies:

Shape the Filling: Once chilled, take about a teaspoon of the maple buttercream mixture and roll it into a small ball or shape it into a flat disc. You can also form them into little logs or round shapes—whatever suits your fancy.
Chill Again: Place the shaped buttercream centers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm and easy to handle.

Coating the Candies in Dark Chocolate:

Melt the Dark Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together. You can do this using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring in between, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
Dip the Candies: Using a fork or a candy-dipping tool, dip each chilled buttercream center into the melted dark chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Gently tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate.
Set the Candies: Place the dipped candies back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to cool and harden completely. You can speed up the process by refrigerating them for 15–20 minutes.

Optional Garnish:

Decorate (Optional): For an added touch of flair, you can drizzle extra melted dark chocolate over the top, or even sprinkle some sea salt or crushed nuts on top before the coating hardens.

Method:

These candies are made in two main stages—preparing the maple buttercream filling and coating it in dark chocolate. The key to success with this recipe is patience, especially when allowing the buttercream to chill before shaping and dipping. This helps maintain a smooth and neat finish once the chocolate sets.

The maple syrup provides an earthy, natural sweetness, which contrasts beautifully with the rich, slightly bitter dark chocolate. Using coconut oil in the chocolate coating helps give it a smooth, shiny finish that’s ideal for a professional look. However, vegetable oil can be used as a substitute if coconut oil isn’t available.

History:

Dark chocolate and maple syrup have a long, storied history in North America. Maple syrup has been harvested by indigenous people for thousands of years, with early settlers learning how to extract it and use it in cooking and baking. Dark chocolate, often thought of as a more modern indulgence, has roots in ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where it was prized as a bitter drink made from cocoa beans.

Over the years, both maple syrup and dark chocolate have become beloved ingredients in desserts, with the combination of the two growing in popularity in recent decades. Maple’s complex sweetness and dark chocolate’s deep, bitter notes make them a perfect pair, and the idea of combining them into a candy form is a relatively new twist on traditional flavors.

Formation of the Candies:

These candies start with the classic buttercream formation—cream the butter, add the sugar, then infuse with flavor (in this case, maple syrup and vanilla). The maple syrup adds moisture to the mixture, making it smooth and spreadable while also giving it a rich, warm sweetness. Chilling the filling ensures it holds its shape when coated in chocolate.

The dark chocolate shell is formed by melting the chocolate and coating each buttercream center, creating a thin, solid layer. This combination of textures—from the soft, smooth buttercream to the crisp dark chocolate—provides a satisfying bite.

Conclusion:

Dark Chocolate Maple Buttercream Candies are an indulgent treat that offers a sophisticated twist on traditional candy recipes. The creamy maple filling and the rich, bittersweet chocolate make these candies a perfect gift for chocolate lovers, or a special treat to enjoy any time. Whether you’re a maple syrup aficionado or simply a dark chocolate lover, these candies are sure to satisfy.

For the Lovers of Sweets: The combination of the smooth, buttery maple filling with the rich chocolate coating will appeal to anyone who enjoys complex, layered desserts. And for those who love giving homemade gifts, these candies are a thoughtful and impressive way to share your love of both chocolate and maple syrup.

Tips for the Lovers:

For Maple Lovers: Use a darker maple syrup (Grade B or amber) for a richer maple flavor that will shine through even more.
For Chocolate Lovers: If you like your candies extra dark, opt for an even higher cocoa percentage in your dark chocolate coating (80% cocoa or more).
For a Festive Touch: Add in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts inside the buttercream filling before chilling. This will add crunch and flavor, making the candies even more indulgent.